Osun Police Clarify Arrest Of Suspect Over Alleged N8.5m Ramadan Food Package Fraud

The Osun State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest and detention of one Soladoye Fasanjo Keji.

The clarification follows public reactions from a group known as the Concerned Youths of Odo Otin Local Government Area.

In a statement issued in Osogbo on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the police said the arrest was carried out after the suspect allegedly ignored several invitations relating to a petition submitted against him.

According to the police, the petition was written by the law firm Atelele & Egbedinini Chambers on behalf of Hon. Damilare Eniade Francis and submitted to the office of the Commissioner of Police on February 25, 2026.

The command said the petition alleged serious offences including obtaining money under false pretences, criminal intimidation and threat to life.

Police said the allegations involve a total sum of N8.5 million which was reportedly transferred to the suspect in November 2025.

According to the statement, the funds were meant for the procurement and distribution of Ramadan food packages to vulnerable residents across Osun State during the holy month.

The police further explained that the suspect allegedly claimed he could facilitate the supply through a food and provision store he said he owned.

However, the police noted that the promised items were never delivered, prompting the complaint that eventually led to the investigation.

The command disclosed that Keji was arrested at about 7:45 p.m. on March 7, 2026, in the Faji area of Okuku.

Ojelabi said the arrest followed repeated instances in which the suspect allegedly failed to honour invitations extended to him by investigators.

“The arrest became necessary only after these repeated instances of non-compliance, in line with standard police procedure to ensure the suspect appears for questioning,” the statement said.

The police added that the operation was conducted professionally and in accordance with the law, noting that the suspect is being treated in line with constitutional provisions, including the right to legal representation and due process.

The command also urged residents, community leaders and youth groups in Odo Otin and across Osun State to remain calm while investigations continue, stressing that the case will be taken to court once the investigation is concluded.